TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Gateron Ink Yellow
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gold Red Pro is celebrated for its versatility, providing a seamless typing experience with its easy press and neutral sound signature. Whether you're gaming, working in an office, or simply typing for leisure, this switch excels in any setting. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow offers a typing experience with a shorter travel, ideal for those seeking a balance between a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard feel. It boasts a smooth and clacky sensation that appeals to users looking for a specific tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18.5mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Ink Yellow, we can see some key differences in the sound profiles they produce. The Gold Red Pro features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the Nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow boasts a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, with the bottom housing also contributing to this clacky sound. Despite these variations, both switches offer a distinct sound experience based on the materials used in their housing.
In terms of aesthetics, the TTC Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. This allows for a visually striking appearance when paired with colorful lighting effects. Conversely, the Gateron Ink Yellow's INK blend top housing may not be as visually appealing compared to the clear polycarbonate of the Gold Red Pro. However, the unique sound profile it produces is a significant factor in its popularity among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Regardless of their differences in appearance, both switches offer a visually pleasing experience when used with the right lighting setup.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the choice between the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Ink Yellow ultimately comes down to personal preference. The TTC Gold Red Pro with its polycarbonate top housing provides a crisp and resonant typing sound, while the Gateron Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a satisfying clacky sound profile. Additionally, the Nylon bottom housing of the Gold Red Pro creates a fuller sound, while the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Yellow contributes to its distinctive sound characteristics. Ultimately, whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a clacky and pointed sound, both switches offer a unique typing experience that is sure to please mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Gold Red Pro has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Gold Red Pro is unknown, which may be a factor to consider for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Yellow has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more significant push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Gold Red Pro being the lighter option and the Gateron Ink Yellow being the heavier option.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Ink Yellow has a shorter travel distance compared to the Gold Red Pro. A shorter travel distance is often preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying depth when typing. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when it comes to travel distance, making them both suitable choices for those looking for a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance in typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
The Gateron Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience. It is a neutral switch, offering a moderate actuation force that is suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch produces a neutral sound with a clacky characteristic, giving off a crisp and sharp sound. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience, with the Gold Red Pro being described as polished, silky, mild, and subtle, while the Ink Yellow is labeled as mild and polished. Overall, both switches provide a pleasant typing experience with slight differences in sound and feel. Users can expect similar results in terms of typing comfort and versatility when choosing between these two high-quality switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch or the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you are looking for a versatile switch that offers a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a shorter travel distance and a pleasant smoothness with a clacky sound, the Ink Yellow could be the perfect fit. Both switches have their strengths and unique characteristics, so it's important to consider what features are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Gold Red Pro and Ink Yellow will depend on your individual typing preferences and the specific environment in which you'll be using the keyboard.
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